English cricket faces a potential shortfall of Dukes balls amid Gulf shipping disruption

IANS | March 19, 2026 6:20 PM

New Delhi, March 19 (IANS) The upcoming English cricket season may face an unusual challenge due to a shortage of Dukes balls, which could affect preparations for both domestic and international matches. Delays in Gulf shipping routes, caused by the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, have slowed the transportation of cricket balls from South Asia to the UK, posing logistical hurdles for the organisers.